The John H. Pace, Jr. ’39 Center for Civic Engagement warmly invites Princeton University staff, faculty and students to be part of Month of Service at Princeton University. Service deepens our sense of connection to our community, and it strengthens the bonds we have to the people with whom we serve. 

Each year in January, our Princeton community gathers together before the start of a new term to bring to life our informal motto – “Princeton in the nation’s service and the service of humanity” – and start the new year with a commitment to pursuits that benefit the public good. 

Put Your Values into Action

For departments, groups, or individuals interested in service activities to support the campus and surrounding communities, you can get involved with:

• Local volunteer opportunities

  • Staff and faculty can participate in volunteer opportunities with community partners supported by the Office of Community and Regional Affairs as part of faculty and staff outreach initiatives. 

• Princeton Mobile Food Pantry drive

  • Princeton Mobile Food Pantry, which delivers fresh, culturally relevant groceries, essentials, and support to families in the Princeton community, is in need of rice, dried beans, and vegetable oil. These three items can be dropped off at the Pace Center’s Frist Campus Center Lounge, 201A through January 27.

• Resources to prepare

  • You can use resources such as the Pace Center’s Field Guide to Service and guidance on how to put your values into action, to help you prepare to engage responsibly. Sara Gruppo, associate director at the Pace Center, is also available for consultation and support.

Learn and Reflect

Preparation, reflection and building relationships are foundational for doing service well and making a positive impact. Here are some ways you can learn and reflect this month: 

• Tea time for a fresh start

  • Join us for a community building circle to explore new starts and fresh perspectives. A circle is a space for intentional communication to share experiences and build relationships. Circles will have unique topics and be facilitated by a staff member trained in restorative justice. Circles will be held January 10, 12, 23 and 25 from 4-5 p.m. at the Pace Center. Please register to attend in advance.

• Take a tour of a local community

  • Join us for a walking tour of the Trenton community with the Pace Center’s community partner-in-residence Ida Malloy. This tour will introduce you to a wide range of community members who will share about the history and current contexts of our local community. In addition, the Historical Society of Princeton offers guided walking tours of the Princeton community as well as digital tours. 

Gather Together

As part of Wintersession, which runs January 16-28, 2023, we invite you to join together for workshops, talks, trips and a Civic Love Community Dinner. To explore the full range of events and programming offered by members of the Princeton community be sure to search the keywords “community building” and “community service” in Wintersession. 

View Wintersession events tagged "Month of Service" below: